Four suspects were arrested in Barberton, on Monday. They are aged between 21 and 40.
The suspects were arrested during by the National Roving team, in conjunction with K9 Unit, Task force, and Vukalanga Security in Barberton and nearby Mandela village and Snake Valley.
This follows the discovery of illicit mining equipment, including shovels, picks, black oxygen cylinder, cutting torches, and gold bearing material, on Sunday.
They are expected to appear at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court soon for the Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the police (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, said he welcomes the arrests and committed law enforcement agencies to continue with efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities.